Marietta College Baseball: A Legacy of Excellence
Marietta College's baseball program boasts a rich and storied history, marked by exceptional coaching, talented players, and numerous championship titles. This article explores the program's journey, highlighting key figures, memorable moments, and the factors that have contributed to its enduring success.
The Don Schaly Era: A Foundation of Success
The modern era of Marietta College baseball is inextricably linked to the name of Don Schaly. His arrival marked a turning point, ushering in a period of unprecedented achievement and establishing a winning culture that continues to define the program.
A Knack for Spotting Talent
Schaly possessed a remarkable ability to identify and develop talent, often seeing potential in players where others did not. One such example is Jamie Holland ’94, who was converted from an infielder to a pitcher during his junior season. Despite limited at-bats, Holland was given an opportunity to play third base and delivered a grand slam in the Ohio Athletic Conference Tournament. “Coach always had a knack for or an instinct to take a chance on a player. He would roll the dice on them even when they weren’t expecting it and putting them in the middle of the biggest games. It was unreal how many times those players were successful in the unexpected role. Coach was amazing." Holland moved to left field and remained a part of the pitching staff in his senior season.
The 'Etta Express: A Dynasty is Born
Under Schaly's leadership, Marietta College became a dominant force in NCAA Division III baseball. The program earned the moniker "The 'Etta Express," a testament to its relentless pursuit of excellence and its ability to consistently outperform its rivals.
Key Figures in Marietta Baseball History
Beyond Coach Schaly, numerous individuals have played pivotal roles in shaping the Marietta College baseball program. Their contributions, both on and off the field, have been instrumental in the team's success.
Read also: A History of Marietta Football
Kent Tekulve: A Pioneer Pitcher
Kent Tekulve stands out as one of the most accomplished players to have donned a Marietta College uniform. He established himself as one of baseball's most successful relievers, ranking among the all-time leaders in games, saves, and relief wins. With his sidearm delivery, the bespectacled, 6'4", rail-thin Tekulve proved baffling to both lefthanders and righthanders. In 1978, he set a Pirates record with 31 saves, which he matched the following year. He led the NL in appearances in both 1978 and 1979, setting a club record with 94 in 1979. That fall, he recorded a World Series-record three saves, striking out 10 Orioles in 9.1 innings. - Executive Director of Cleveland Sports Legends Foundation Morris A. Tekulve's success at the professional level brought considerable recognition to the Marietta College baseball program.
Coaching Staff and Support Personnel
The success of Marietta College baseball is not solely attributable to individual players or the head coach. A dedicated team of assistant coaches, trainers, and support staff work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the program's smooth operation and the players' well-being. Associate Coach Bill Mosca played an important role in the team's success.
Memorable Moments and Championship Victories
Marietta College's baseball history is replete with memorable moments and championship victories that have cemented its place among the elite programs in Division III baseball.
NCAA Division III National Championships
Marietta College has won the NCAA Division III Baseball Championship multiple times, solidifying its status as a national powerhouse. Each championship run has been a testament to the team's talent, resilience, and unwavering determination. Marietta College is the defending - and record five-time - NCAA Division III Baseball Champions.
The 1993 OAC Tournament: Holland's Grand Slam
The 1993 Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) Tournament provided one of the most unforgettable moments in Marietta College baseball history. Jamie Holland's grand slam not only propelled the team to victory but also exemplified Coach Schaly's ability to make unconventional decisions that paid off handsomely. “When I hit the grand slam, Coach Schaly had this grin on his face when I got back to the dugout. It was sort of his way of telling me he was proud of me,” Holland says. “The only drawback was the players giving me a hard time for making Coach Schaly look like a genius for playing me."
Read also: Logo History: Marietta College
"Marietta College Baseball: The Story of The 'Etta Express"
"Marietta College Baseball: The Story of The 'Etta Express" explores the last 48 years of Pioneer baseball, from the time Don Schaly became head coach through the 2011 National Championship. It includes extensive interviews with former Marietta stars Kent Tekulve and Jim E. Tracy, as well as a Foreword by Jim (J.J.) Tracy, now the Director of National Sales and Business Development for Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. The book was published in the spring of 2012 and released March 25, 2012, by The History Press. The book delves into the program's history, offering insights into the coaches, players, and moments that have defined its legacy. Caruso, a career-long sports journalist, conceived the Warren Spahn Statue that stands outside Turner Field in Atlanta, raised all the funds for it, and gave the main dedication speech. Additionally, Caruso designed and scripted the Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium mural that's on permanent display at Turner Field.
The Enduring Legacy of Marietta College Baseball
Marietta College's baseball program has established a lasting legacy of excellence, characterized by its commitment to developing talented players, fostering a winning culture, and achieving remarkable success on the national stage. The program's rich history, passionate fan base, and unwavering pursuit of championships ensure that it will continue to be a source of pride for the college and the community for years to come. Jamie Holland says, “I had so much fun that season. I realized early in the year when we were training that this was it for me,” Holland says. “I was going to enjoy every moment, even when we were doing sprints up hills."
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Read also: KSU's Marietta Campus
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